Swimmers urged to take care as drownings rise

Beach goers on the New South Wales far south coast are being reminded to take care on the water.

Surf Lifesaving New South Wales have released its National Coastal Safety Report, which shows the rate of drownings in the State has risen.

President of the Far South Coast Surf Lifesaving Branch, Tony Rettke says swimmers need to be aware of dangerous surf conditions.

“At all times swim at a patrolled beach within the flags,” Mr Rettke said.

“If there's no chance of being at a patrolled beach, which should be no problem with the upcoming season, certainly always swim with a friend, swim with a buddy and just be aware of any dangers that may be on that beach.

“But first and foremost, swim at a patrolled beach."

Mr Rettke says if precautions are taken, tragedies can be avoided.

He says surf conditions can change rapidly, and care needs to be exercised.

"On the far south coast last year, we had seven drownings,” Mr Rettke said.

“Two of those were swimmers, the rest were a scuba diver, a rock fisherman and overturned boats.

“So much of it is out of our control with surf lifesaving, but we've certainly become very much a part of it with our after-hours rescue operations with our two jet skis, and our IRBs."

You have no doubt been hearing a lot about the Paris Agreement and know that it pertains to climate change, but are too embarrassed at this stage to ask for an overall explanation of what it's all about.